An uncomfortable bed will affect the quality of your sleep and you’re likely to wake up tired and sore. Add unwanted noise and going to bed becomes a nightmare when every toss and turn yields an irritating squeak. If you are wondering how to fix a squeaking bed, then you have come to the right place.
There are several factors that can cause this kind of noise; so, the first thing you need to establish is the actual source. This will make it easier to remedy the situation by following the steps we have outlined in this article. Our guide on how to fix a squeaking bed involves simple DIY solutions that utilize tools that are readily available at home. Hopefully, at the end of this article, you can look forward to rejuvenating sleep with minimal, if any, interruptions.
Before replacing your bed frame, why not try these tips on how to stop your bed from squeaking? In this section, we will discuss the common sources of such noise, how to identify them, and the simple methods you can use to fix it.
If your bed is squeaking, the most likely culprit will be the bed frame which includes the headboard, sides and the bottom base. These components are connected by joints that are held together by screws or metal bolts. The squeaking noise occurs when the joints loosen and cause friction as the metallic parts rub against each other. Apply pressure on the different parts of the bed frame and shake them lightly to test whether they are the source of this problem. If they are, then you can try these solutions to tighten the loose components:
Use a wrench to tighten bolts and if they are still loose, a washer on the bolt will fill in the extra space between the frame and the bolt for tight fitting. However, if your bed frame is connected by screws, then a screwdriver will provide a snug fit.
If the problem persists, move on to the next step.
If there is still a squeaking noise, you may have to reassemble the affected joint. To do this, loosen the screws or bolts to separate the two bed frame parts connected at the joint. Put back the parts carefully using the bolts and screws you had taken off and tighten them with the appropriate tools to prevent further noise.
Check to see if the problem has been resolved, and repeat the process for any other loose joint on the bed frame.
If tightening the screws and bolts does not do the trick, consider lubricants which are an effective deterrent against squeaking noise caused by bed frames made of metal or fastened by metallic screws and bolts. The lubricant is applied on the connective parts of the joint to reduce friction. Some great lubricant options that can stop a metal bed from squeaking include:
We will now discuss how to stop a wooden bed frame from squeaking because sometimes the problem is not the loosening of screws and bolts or friction between the joints. At times, this noise results from friction between the bed frame and surfaces such as the floor, slats or the mattress. This is where cushioning between the two surfaces comes in handy. Depending on the source of the squeak, consider these tips:
Bed frame and mattress/ box spring: If these are the two squeaking surfaces, place fabric like t-shirts, towels, felt cloth and bed sheets between them to limit friction and then place back the box spring or mattress.
Lining old socks between the mattress and the frame or between the bed frame perimeter and the Bunkie board or around wooden slats can absorb friction and fix a squeaking bed. Now you can finally make good use of those pesky socks that have lost their partners.
As you figure out how to stop a bed frame from squeaking, keep in mind that the noise might be coming from the point of contact between the legs and the feet. If the squeaking noise is from the legs scratching against the floor or from the bed rocking due to uneven legs, add pads or old socks between the floor and the legs of the bed to level them and muffle the creakiness.
A book before bed may induce sleep if it is a boring read, or it may help to stop bed springs from squeaking. But how do you use one in the latter situation? If the springs are creaking, you will need thicker material as a buffer between the mattress and the spring base. Books and thick towels can provide a thick layer that limits friction and noise.
For beds with wheels and casters, adding caster cups made of rubber under the wheels or replacing the wheels with leg pads will secure the legs to the floor to limit movement and to stop the bed frame from squeaking.
For wooden bed frames, cushioning with small pieces of cork between the frame and mattress or wedging them around the legs will tighten loose components that are creating noise.
You can also add extra padding to shorter legs to level them on the floor if the noise is caused by wobbling, uneven legs. In addition to steadying your bed, padding is effective at dampening squeaking noise.
In absence of lubricants like WD-40, applying several coats of wax will serve to reduce friction between joints.
Candle wax or beeswax: If there are metallic joints rubbing against each other, these two types of wax will create a hard lubricating film that will prevent friction and subsequently, generation of noise.
Paraffin: You can rub this wax bar on problematic joints to lubricate them.
Great anti-shake options that will eliminate squeaking headboards and walls are aneaseit Anti-Vibration and Soundproof Pads which come in 32 pieces that do not require drilling to install, or the adjustable threaded bed frame which stabilizes wobbling headboards and other furniture placed against the wall.
If there are no leg pads available, you may insert a folded sheet or towel between the legs and the floor to level a wobbling bed for an even sleeping surface.
It is not always possible to stop a wooden bed frame from squeaking noise caused by friction between the foundation frame and the wooden edges of a box spring. The creaking sound may be a sign that you are due for a new bed frame that can withstand vigorous sex or excited kids jumping on the bed.
Foam and latex mattresses do not have metal coils that would generate noise, but hybrid and innerspring models do.
Place the mattress on the floor and move around on it to test for creaking sounds resulting from weakening metal springs in the mattress layers. As the internal structure deteriorates, you may notice sagging in the affected areas. Since sagging can cause back pain, you can level out the sleeping surface temporarily with a mattress topper.
Rotating or flipping the mattress will also reduce uneven tear and wear and give the weakening spots a chance to regain their shape.
A box spring features a rigid frame and heavy-duty metal coils similar to those found in innerspring mattresses. These coils may rub against each other as they deteriorate, so this part will explain how to stop bed springs from squeaking.
Once you confirm that either of this is responsible for the creaking bed, you can try cutting a small hole to expose the coils which you then spray with WD-40 lubricant to reduce friction points. Reseal the cover with a stapler before placing back the box spring and mattress.
If the problem persists, then it might be time to replace your box spring.
As you can see, there are various means you can incorporate to stop a wooden or metal bed from squeaking once you have pinpointed the origin of the noise. One way you can avoid a squeaking bed is by investing in a durable one like Zinus bed frame which features solid pine wood and steel frames that support up to 500 pounds, making it the best choice for heavy individuals. It is available in different sizes and colors to accommodate a wide range of personal preferences.
